Siderographer

Reproduce original engravings on metal plates.

Quick Stats

Salary Range

$18,000 – $45,000

Data from U.S. Department of Labor

What do Siderographers do?

Reproduces original engravings on metal plates used to print banknotes, bonds, and other securities, using gravers’ handtools and machines: Cuts around designs on roller die to remove undesirable parts of assembled die, using graver, and assembles die from several rollers on which parts of design have been engraved. Lays out construction lines on steel plate, using trammel point, dividers, steel scribers, and gauge, to align subjects to be transferred. Scrapes and burnishes plate surface to remove imperfections, aligns plate on transfer press bed, and positions engraved steel roll on plate, using magnifying glass to verify accuracy. Depresses lever that embeds engraved design on roll into steel plate. Examines transferred design and repeats process until exact reproduction is made. May reproduce design in soft steel rolls.

Should I be a Siderographer?

You should have
a
high school
degree or higher and share these traits:

Reliable:
You can always be counted on to do a good job.

Detail Oriented:
You pay close attention to all the little details.

Levelheaded:
You hold your emotions in check, even in tough situations.

Also known as:
Siderographist

How to become a Siderographer

Most Siderographers have no higher education and get on-the-job training. Think about earning a Certificate or Master's degree to increase your competitiveness in the field.